Franklin Lee Spain, 67, of Niles, Mich., died Thursday, July 17, 2008, at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center in South Bend, Ind., following an extended illness.

He was born on Feb. 11, 1941, in Potomac, Ill., to the late Fred T. and Hulda A. Hoskins Spain, and lived most of his lifetime in Niles, Mich. He was employed by Electro-Voice of Buchanan, Mich., as a National Service Manager for more 43 years, and he spent 20 years in the middle of his career in Sevierville.

He graduated from Niles High School with the Class of 1959, and then served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1960 to 1964. He was president of the Sevier County Jaycees, and a lifetime member of the Tennessee Jaycees. He earned a degree from the University of Tennessee, and continued his education in computers and business.

His favorite pastimes were rebuilding cars, computers and attending auctions. He enjoyed time spent with his family and friends, and was always willing to help someone who needed his assistance.

On Aug. 15, 1964, in Portsmouth, Va., he married Juanita Odum, who survives him. He was preceded in death by one brother, Fred Spain Jr.; and four sisters, Carrie Stucker, Hattie Quick, Mary Graham and Florence Shafer.

Survivors include one brother and sister-in-law, Ron and Rosemary Spain of Niles, Mich.; five sisters and two brothers-in-law, Frances Varga of Niles, Mich., Martha Bryant of Florida, Beverly and Ray Birczak, Laura Laverna Wright and Julia and Roger Marrow, all of Niles, Mich.; a special sister-in-law, Linda Spain; and one brother-in-law, Sonny Odum.

A life celebration with friends and family will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday at Brown Funeral Home. Thoughts and stories can be shared. A time of visitation will begin at 4 p.m. Monday.

Funeral services will be 8 p.m. Thursday at Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Friday at Sullins Cemetery in Athens with full military honors provided by the U.S. Marine Corps.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Family or friends wishing to leave a condolence, message or picture may do so on www.brownfuneralhomeniles.com

Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Niles, Mich., and Laycock-Hobbs Funeral Home of Athens are in charge of arrangements.